At a glance

Your chance to

At a glance

3 nights 3 star hotels, 4 nights gite/refuge

Magnificent trekking in the snowy High Atlas Mountains in Morocco

During the winter Mt Toubkal and the surrounding peaks of the High Atlas turn into a walkers paradise; with empty trails, clear air and spectacular views over the Toubkal Massif. Starting from bustling Marrakech we venture right into the High Atlas to climb North Africa's highest peak (4167m). Crampons and ice axes are usually required throughout the trip (depending on weather), but this trip is designed to be achievable by those who are fit, even if they are new to winter walking.

Walk profile

Daily distance in km/miles:

Day 2

1.3km/0.8miles

Day 3

8.7km/5.4miles

Day 4

5.9km/3.7miles

Day 5

5.5km/3.4miles

Day 6

8.7km/5.4miles

Number of days walking: 5

Pace: Challenging: 5-6km/3-4miles an hour

Terrain: High altitude; including steep, rocky terrain

Itinerary

2Day 2Drive to Imlil, short walk to Aremd and free time to explore this remote village.

Morning transfer by minibus to Imlil, a journey of just under two hours which takes us from the plains into the heart of the High Atlas range. After lunch we take a short walk to our mountain gite in Arroumd where there is some free time to explore the area.See more images and videos

3Day 3Ascent of Jebel Toubkal (4167m) the highest mountain in North Africa.

Leaving the fields and walnut trees of Aroumd behind, we follow the Mizane valley to the small shrine of Sidi Chamarouch, a place of pilgrimage for many Moroccans. There is time to view the tomb of the local marabout (holy man) albeit from a distance as non-Muslims are not allowed to cross the footbridge. After stopping for a soft drink or mint tea, we continue the climb up to the Neltner refuge at an altitude of 3209m.
The afternoon is used to practice with the crampons and ice-axe. The guides will find an appropriate patch of snow and demonstrate the important techniques of walking in crampons and ice-axe arrest - stopping yourself with your axe if you are sliding on a snow slope.
See more images and videos

An early start (6-7am) for the ascent of Toubkal. After crossing the river outside the refuge we immediately start climbing through scree and snow up the western flank of Toubkal. About an hour below the summit we we reach a wide open pass for our first views of the south. We then turn north for a climb up the ridge to the summit plateau. Reaching the summit (4167m) provides a great sense of achievement and we are rewarded with breathtaking views. We descend by the same route and should be back to the refuge in time for a late lunch.

Another early start to climb Jebel Ouanakrim, North Africa's second highest peak that dominates the head of the valley. We start with a more gentle walk up to the valley head, passing a few snowy 'azibs' (summer grazing pastures) to take us to the Tizi (col). From here we can see the scramble that is needed to take us to the summit plateau. The scramble is easy, but a little exposed in some places so the guides will set up a rope where needed. It's about 100 metres in length, with only the middle section requiring any particular care. We then cross (still quite a bit of ascent to go) the summit plateau to the Timzguida summit at 4089m. The views from here are even more extensive than those from Toubkal, with sweeping vista down the Sous valley towards Taroudant.

Today we head for a narrow pass, Tizi Ouanoums, which is jammed in a steep gorge on the side of Toubkal. From here we look down the steep southerly face to the emerald green Lac D'Ifni below. After enjoying the views we return the way we came in time for our transfer back to Marrakech.

With a full free day we have lots of time to explore Marrakech and do some serious bargaining for souvenirs. Djemaa el Fna, the open-air market place around which traditional life of Marrakech revolves, is an exciting place to visit. The name literally means 'place of death' as it was the place where the Sultans used to display the heads of their enemies. Now, with the foodstalls, snake charmers, water-sellers, travelling musicians and acrobats, the square is a place of entertainment for both Moroccan and visitors alike. The modern shopping centres of the French-built 'new town' are only a short walk away.See more images and videos

Your images

Adult Group

This is a small group adult holiday. The group is usually between 4 and 16 in size, with an average of 12 like-minded clients booking individually, in a couple or as friends together.

Activity level

You have a good level of fitness and are looking for a physically challenging holiday. Previous experience is essential for activity based trips.

What's included

What's included

All breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners

All accommodation

London flights (if booking incl. flights)

Airport transfers

What's not included

Travel insurance

Single accommodation - please request upon booking

Accommodation details

Hotels & Refuges

You will spend 3 nights in 3 star hotels with en suite rooms and 4 nights in a gite or refuge with shared private facilities. On your route through the mountains, you will stay in small refuges in dormitory-style rooms with basic facilities, however all huts are clean and provide a warm Berber welcome.

Essential info

Vaccinations and Visa
No visa required by British passport holders.
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Tetanus, Tetanus and Hepatitis A. Holiday style

Trekking Conditions
This is a strenuous winter trek to an area of outstanding scenic and cultural interest. This trip is designed for confident trekkers who are new to winter walking as well as those who have some experience of trekking on snow.
Some sections, especially on Toubkal and Ouanoukrim ascent days, can be steep and rough. It is expected that large parts of the mountainside will be covered in snow, therefore ice axe and crampons will normally be necessary on all departures. Although these sections are not technically difficult they are high and can be exposed. Where there is a high level of exposure the guide will cut steps in the snow and/or provide use of a rope. It is mandatory that you obey the wishes of the guide in these circumstances.
Snow cover will of course vary, but the use of ice axes and crampons is essential when crossing steep snowy terrain. Some previous experience would be helpful in order to quickly pick up the necessary skills needed to use both the ice axe and crampons but is not essential.
The use of ice axes and crampons is essential when crossing snowy terrain. Some previous experience would be helpful in order to quickly pick up the necessary skills needed to use both the ice axe and crampon but is not essential. The guides will give a full briefing and run a training session before the ascents of Toubkal and Ouanoukrim.

Risk Warnings
This trip goes to high altitudes (maximum 4167m, average 2600mm) where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Please refer to the Altitude Warning below for further information.
Winter walking can be dangerous and although we take important steps to manage and minimise this risk, we can never eradicate it altogether. The main danger is from tripping then sliding down a snow slope, and in certain conditions, avalanche.

Accommodation
Outside Marrakech we use basic accommodation. A gite in the mountain village of Aroumnd (1 night) and a basic mountain refuge (3 nights) at the base of Toubkal. Both have electricity, dormitory sleeping accommodation, shared toilets and bathrooms and small fires/stoves for heating.

Eating & drinking

Moroccan food is, generally speaking, excellent though not particularly varied. When eating out, meals are reasonably priced - kebab and bread cost only about GBP4 (approx. . USD6.50). In Marrakech it is possible to find very good French and Moroccan restaurants where a meal and French wine will cost anything from GBP20 (approx. . USD30) upwards. Generally dinner is likely to cost between GBP8-10 (approx. . USD 10-15) depending on what you drink. GBP15 (approx. . USD25) a day for food should be sufficient. Local beers, wines and soft drinks are available at very reasonable prices but you can pay UK prices or more for imported alcohol.

Whilst on the trek food is prepared by our own cook. Breakfasts usually consist of bread and jam, porridge and/or muesli, coffee and tea. Lunches will usually be bread, vegetable salad plus one hot dish. Popular dinners are tagine, couscous and pasta with a vegetable or meat sauce.

Vegetarians can be catered for but there is a fairly limited choice of cous cous and tajine or omelettes. If you have any special dietary requirements you should inform the Exodus Office prior to the trip. If you have a specific medical/dietary need (i.e. coeliac or vegan) you may find it helpful to bring some items of food with you from home.

Bottled water, soft drinks and hot drinks are available every day. However, we encourage our customers not to buy bottled water whilst on the mountains due to a lack of recycling facilities. We instead suggest using the piped spring water available at the gite and refuge along with water purification tablets which you will need to bring with you.

Trip notes

Download the detailed trip notes for everything you could possibly want to know about this trip, including
detailed itinerary and full kit list

Weather & seasonality

Marrakech is likely to be warm (rather than hot) during the day, and a little chilly at night. In the mountains expect temperatures to vary from 10degC or so in the sun during the day, to below freezing out of the sun and at night. Any warmth provided by the sun soon goes after the sun disappears behind the mountains in the late afternoon.

Heavy snowfall, rain and storms can be expected in the mountains during winter, but they are normally reasonably short-lived. Although it would be unusual to experience more than two days in a row of bad weather, you should be prepared for all conditions. If there is a stable high pressure over the mountains in winter, which is common, we will enjoy clear, cold crisp days, and nights with temperatures dropping well below freezing.

The first snows often come in late October or early November, but some years can see little snow cover up to December.

Gallery

Reviews & community

A challenging and exhilarating trek in winter conditions, with over 7 meters of snow in places, using crampons and ice axes for the first time! and with a fabulous group!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The most inspirational was our pre trek briefing from our leader Abdullah who welcomed us in a sincere and earnest way to Morocco which is a muslim country surrounded by other countries which are in conflict. This made a deep impression and immediately earned our respect for him.

What did you think of your group leader?

Abdullah was a fantastic leader,He looked after us kept us informed and was ably assisted by Mohammed and Houssain. Safety was paramount, he checked our kit and trekked with us if we were flagging!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go with the Exodus team! push yourselves and find your limits, Its exhilarating, Take up the challenge! Your guides will assist you in every way.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We had a fabulous trek, This is our third time with Exodus and this was the best group ever, We all got on and had a hoot! we experienced fabulous views of the Atlas mountains in winter, the chaos of Marrakesh, the cramped sleeping conditions of the refuge, and loved every minute of it, along with the achievement of conquering Mount Toubkal.

For me, this was one of those times where I had little in the way of understanding of what I was letting myself in for, yeah, it's rated as a 7 out of 10 (tough), can't be that hard right? Easy, I can make it. Actually I did 'make it', don't get me wrong this is a physically challenging 'holiday', I found the altitude the hardest part. Even though I found it tough it was hugely rewarding and I would absolutely recommend this trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

For me, three things; meeting someone who'd completed the trip the day before saying, "would you like to have my hot water bottle" - I'm a guy, no hot water bottle for me (mistake)

Meeting someone who was easily 65+ and had completed all the treks with a smile, if they can do it so can I right?

The second trek, maybe not as high as Toubkal but by far the most fun! Kept me going.

What did you think of your group leader?

Top, very tentative, informative, good group leader. Even managed to keep up with us on the - end of trip party - just.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Read the trip notes and take note of the recommended equipment to take. (I missed I needed a sleeping bag)

during the winter walks, I'd rent the Ice Axe and crampons on offer rather than taking my own, this is more from a weight perspective than anything else.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Even if you feel physically tired, keep going! It get easier and it's worth it!

At the tender age of 40(ish), Mike is already an Exodus old-timer. Joining Exodus in 1995, with 5 years as a tour leader where he specialised in the Himalayas and Latin America, Mike finally hung up his trekking boots after 2 years in the Pyrenees running trekking, biking and snowshoeing trips. Back in the office Mike developed our Winter Activities programme before moving into operations. As Operations Director, Mike's mission is now to 'make Health and Safety interesting' (good luck Mike) while maintaining Exodus' spirit of adventure!

Questions about your trip

Are sleeping mats provided?

Yes! When not staying in a hotel, you will always have a foam sleeping mat or full mattress if staying in a gite.

Danuta Janik - Customer Operations

What kind of footwear is suitable?

You will need comfortable walking boots with ankle support, and something lighter for the evenings.

David Richardson - Sales

Are water purification tablets necessary?

The EU recently banned the use of iodine tablets, therefore these will no longer be provided on trek. We advise you buy your own purification tablets in the UK (Biox Aqua drops are good) and take them with you. Bottled water can be purchased throughout most parts of the trip, yet please note recycling is not fully established in a lot of areas.

Danuta Janik - Morocco Operations

What are the temperatures likely to be trekking in the Atlas mountains?

Expect it to be hot during the day with strong sun, mid to high 20s is the norm. However, there can be a cool breeze and you will need extra layers when you stop. As ever in the mountains be prepared for quick, unpredictable changes in the weather and have appropriate clothing for this. At night temperatures can drop to zero.

David Richardson - Sales

Should I take any gifts for local Moroccan children?

You may take out some gifts if you like, but do not give money - ideally take crayons, pens, writing paper etc which they can use in school.

Ian Langford - Sales

Can I hire a sleeping bag locally in Morocco?

Unfortunately our local supplier does not have a reliable source through which he can secure sleeping bags so you will need to have this in advance of travelling. If you don't want to buy one, bags can be hired through TrekHireUK (www.trekhireuk.com).

Danuta Janik - Customer Operations

Is Marrakech easy to get around?

You will find taxis everywhere but the only way to travel around the city and soak up the atmosphere is to jump in a Calesh! If there’s one thing, you do make sure you enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride around the old walled city or medina. Your hotel can arrange for a caleche to collect you pick one up from the ‘taxi rank’ at the entrance to the Djemma el Fna or main square.

Ben Roseveare - Marketing Director

Anything I shouldn't miss in Marrakech?

Marrakech is truly a taste of Morocco at it's best. Grab a seat in the huge main square, the Djemma el Fna, and watch the world go by while sipping some mint tea. It's been a place of entertainment for locals for hundreds of years and is packed with everything from food stalls to snake charmers! The Majorelle and Menara gardens are also well worth a visit, and offer some peace in the middle of this hectic city.

At night, anyone looking for somewhere to chill out in the heart of the medina should try the Café Arabe, which has some of the best modern Moroccan food around, as well as great views from their rooftop terrace!

Kim Christie - Customer Operations

What is Moroccan food like?

Moroccan cuisine is very diverse, with many influeneces due to the interaction of Morocco with the outside world for centuries. The cuisine of Morocco is a mix of Berber, Moorish, Mediterranean and Arab influences. The main Moroccan dish most people are familiar with is couscous, usually eaten with beef or lamb. Chicken is also very common and the importance of seafood is increasing, especially on the coast. Vegetarians won't have any problems either, although choice can be more limited in remote locations.

The common and tasty tajine is everywhere, a mouth watering stew with meat and vegetables. Green tea with mint is the drink of choice, and you can pick up bocadillos (sandwiches) from street stalls everywhere - you won't go hungry!

Olly Leicester - Sales

What is the best way to take money to Morocco?

The Moroccan currency is the Dirham and cannot be imported or exported, as it is a 'closed' currency. We suggest you take your personal spending money in good condition notes, either in £, Euros or US$. Local costs - it depends! - £2-4 per day to cover postcards, small souvenirs, soft drinks etc; £15 a day for food is fine (if it's not included).

Danuta Janik - Morocco Operations

What kind of clothing is best in a Muslim country?

You are visiting a predominantly Muslim country, therefore you should dress modestly at all times when visiting cultural sites, and there may also be times when you are asked to 'cover up'. During your trip the tour leader will always advise you on appropriate dress for each day's activities.

If you are asked to 'cover up', you'll need to cover your shoulders, arms and legs. We recommend packing lightweight trousers or a long skirt, and a long sleeved shirt. Women may also be required to cover their hair with a scarf if entering a mosque or religious quarters.

Jim Eite - Product Manager

Will Ramadan affect my trip?

Please note that the holy month of Ramadan will take place during specific dates each year, the actual dates will be listed in the respective Trip Notes. This is a time when followers of Islam do not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. This can sometimes affect the opening hours of certain tourist sites. However we will ensure that that the itinerary is affected as little as possible if you travel during this period. Food and drink is available to tourists during the day.

Brendan Phelan - Customer Operations

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